Recently, Zendaya made headlines at the “Odyssey” premiere in New York, not just for her ethereal look, but also for the surprising brand behind her stunning gown. Styled by Law Roach, Zendaya wore a breathtaking strapless gown adorned with feathered white wings, crafted by the fashion house Matières Fécales, which translates to “Fecal Matter” in English.
Founded over a decade ago in Montreal, Matières Fécales has recently gained attention for its bold, avant-garde designs that challenge conventional beauty standards. The design duo, Steven Raj Bhaskaran and Hannah Rose Dalton, has been turning heads with their alien-like aesthetic, characterized by dramatic white makeup, shaved heads, and unique footwear that resembles realistic feet.
The name of the brand reflects their critical view of the fashion industry. Initially considering a more vulgar term, they opted for “fecal matter” as a scientific alternative. In an interview with Vogue, Dalton mentioned that they translated it into French because it sounded more glamorous. Bhaskaran added that the name also serves as a commentary on the wasteful practices often seen in fashion.
Despite its unconventional name, Matières Fécales has attracted a following among celebrities, with stars like Lady Gaga and Kylie Jenner sporting their designs. Celebrity stylist Brad Goreski described the brand’s work as embodying a “beautiful tension” between different aesthetic elements.
The brand’s rise to fame culminated in their participation in Paris Fashion Week, where they debuted their collection “The Other,” a celebration of fearless identity. Their innovative designs have garnered attention for pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion aesthetics.
In March, they showcased “The One Percent,” which featured models wearing red paint and dollar bill masks, highlighting themes of power and inequality. This stark contrast to other fashion shows has resonated deeply within the industry, as reflected in the commentary of fashion experts.
Their designs have not only made waves on the red carpet but have also found their way into mainstream media, with Kylie Jenner wearing a bold satin blazer in a Dunkin’ ad. Their unique style and artistic vision are captivating a wider audience, as they continue to break barriers in the fashion world.
As they prepare for their next show at Paris Fashion Week, the fashion community eagerly anticipates what new narratives and designs Matières Fécales will bring to life. Their commitment to expressing individuality and challenging norms positions them as a remarkable force in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion.
